High Performing Students Program

A joint
initiative of the University of Newcastle and NSW Department of Education and Communities

The High Performing Students
Program gives exceptional high school students the opportunity to get a 'taste' of tertiary education by undertaking first year university courses while still at school.

The University of Newcastle program provides students
with opportunities to fulfil their academic potential, help with career
decisions, and can lead to credit for university studies.

Now in its tenth
year, the program is delivered at Merewether High School but is open to
students from all schools. The program aims to keep our best and brightest in
the region, and to build opportunities for local growth.

Support for
students

Students in the High Performing
Students Program benefit from:

individual learning plans

career discussion

industry visits

Students enrol in University of
Newcastle courses and become university students. They have access to all
University facilities, including the libraries (excluding restricted areas).
Educational technologies – such as Blackboard – are a feature of all courses,
and approaches to teaching and learning are innovative and sensitive to diverse
student needs.

Courses are typically 15 weeks
long. In the case of science courses, students complete 'wet labs' at
the University of Newcastle during the school holiday period. Industry visits
may also be included, and all excursions are conducted in line with Department
of Education and Communities policy.

When a course is successfully
completed, students are eligible for a credit transfer in a relevant university
degree program.

Am I eligible?

There are no age restrictions for
enrolment but students must display a suitable level of maturity and
commitment. The cost for each course is $400.

The
University of Newcastle reserves the right to withdraw courses from the High
Performing Students Program if there is insufficient interest.

Semester one

Globalisation and International Management (BUSN1001)

This course
analyses the challenges and opportunities presented by the globalisation of
markets and production for managers in both domestic and multinational
companies (MNCs). The cultural, political, economic and technological drivers
and implications of Globalisation will be presented providing an introduction
to basic concepts in global economics and international business. While a key
purpose of the course will be to understand how managers design effective
strategic business decisions cognizant of cultural, political and economic
difference internationally, a critique of the basic paradigm of profit
maximising behaviour by MNCs will also be presented through a discussion of
strategizing with corporate social responsibility.

Introduction to 2D Studies (AART1500)

This course
introduces the basic core skills required to develop and explore the expressive
potential of current drawing, painting or printmaking practices. The course
establishes enquiry in foundation material, technical, conceptual and
theoretical dimensions of these practices in the context of an historical and
contemporary frame.

Introduction to Engineering Practice (GENG1803)

This course introduces
students to the scope and practice of professional engineering and the role it
plays in today's society. Emphasis is placed on developing technical skills and
innovative thinking to find solutions to social needs within a sustainable
framework.

Foundations of Health and Disease (HUBS1417)

This course
provides an integrated introduction to human biosciences. The anatomy and
physiology of the major organ systems will be explored together with
interactive labs/tutorials looking at pathophysiology, utilising the expertise
of Faculty of Health and Medicine staff including: Clinical Exercise
Physiology, Medical Radiation Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, Podiatry,
Occupational Therapy and Nursing. The course will be taught in a blended mode
that includes face to face instruction in lectures and practical tutorials, in
conjunction with on-line teaching and interaction. The learning outcomes of the
course will be assessed in mini-tests, reflective exercises and an end of term
exam.

Molecules, Cells, and Organisms (BIOL1001)

This course is an introduction to the basic principles and concepts
of cell and molecular biology. Students explore the nature of life's molecular
building blocks and systems and how these interact to form functional cells and
ultimately organisms. Students will discover some of the principles behind how
cells work and explore ideas about how biological complexity and life itself
may have originated. This knowledge underpins our ability to combat disease, to
harness solar energy to feed the world, to sustainably power human industry and
to recycle our waste efficiently using microbial systems.

Semester two

Courses in
the High Performing Students Program are offered in semester one only.

Submit to Merewether High School: your Expression of Interest form, your last school report, and a signed letter from your school principal confirming that your work is of a high calibre.

Attend an interview with the principal of Merewether High School, a University of Newcastle representative, and the Executive Officer of the program. This interview is formal and you are required to wear school uniform. Sample interview questions might include:

Why are you interested in this course?

What career expectations do you have?

How will you manage the extra time this course requires and maintain the high standards for the School Certificate or the Higher School Certificate?

Present a portfolio or CV representing your learning and interests outside school, and any relevant work experience such as your School to Work log book.

You will be notified by a representative from Merewether High School of the outcome of your Expression of Interest and, if selected, of class details.

If selected, you will be asked by your lecturer at your first class to complete the University's non-award program application. This enables the University to set up your access to e-learning technologies and libraries.

Expression of Interest Forms are due by Tuesday 10 February 2015

Send your completed form to:

Merewether High School
High Performing Students Program
PO Box 3010
Hamilton DC NSW 2303